Top 7 Cabernet Sauvignon Characteristics

Ah, the beauty of Cab. Life is a Cabernet, after all. Here’s why we love it:

1) Black currant/cassis, especially in New World varieties, and other black fruit such as blackberry, ripe cherry and plum

2) Mint or eucalyptus

3) Cedar/pencil shavings – this predominates in some Bordeaux bottles

4) Green pepper/vegetal/ herbaceous- especially in cooler climates

5) Chocolate – mmmmmm

6) Tobacco/cigar box – this is fabulous, trust me

7) Vanilla and spice – from the oak that is most often used for aging good Cabs.

As mentioned in the previous post, Cabernet Sauvignon is the source of much attention and passion in California. But don’t limit yourself to Arnieland! Many of the world’s most spectacular, cherished and expensive Bordeaux are Cab based, but most wine regions in the world try their hand at Cab – often successfully. The price point can vary across the entire spectrum, with very affordable, lower tannin bottles available for immediate consumption from many New World countries such as Australia, Chile, South Africa and Washington State. Drink it with big red protein: lamb and steak come to mind right away.